Figure 1: The globally popular Pomeranian -- Shunsuke

        Pomeranians are loved by many for their cute appearance and lively personality, ranking among the most popular companion pets. Increasing attention is being paid to their care issues, such as what to do if a Pomeranian refuses to eat, how to manage dry and rough fur, or causes of seizures in Pomeranians. Among so many issues, one problem often overlooked by owners is dry gagging in Pomeranians. Because dry gagging does not produce vomit, careless owners might not even notice it. Moreover, some owners may think it is not a big problem, likening it to occasional gagging people experience in the morning that resolves on its own. However, the truth is that Pomeranian dry gagging always has an underlying cause.

        1. Causes of dry gagging in Pomeranians

        1. Physical irritation

        When a dog’s throat is irritated by certain foods or objects, it will exhibit dry gagging. Once the dog expels the irritating food or object, the gagging ceases. If the irritating food or object scratches the dog’s throat, the dog may develop pharyngitis. Symptoms of pharyngitis include loss of appetite, coughing, reluctance to wear a leash (due to throat irritation causing discomfort), and fever. To detect the condition early, owners should closely observe their dogs during daily care.

Figure 2: When a dog has pharyngitis, owners should avoid using such collars

        Countermeasures:

        Do not feed dogs meat with bones or fish with unremoved spines; train dogs from a young age not to eat things indiscriminately; keep sharp small objects out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion. If the dog has already ingested something harmful, owners should first observe whether the dog can expel the irritant on its own. If the dog cannot vomit it out and the owner cannot resolve the issue, immediate veterinary care is necessary. It is important not to misuse anti-inflammatory medications.

        2. Parasitic infection

        Dogs infected by parasites can also show dry gagging symptoms. Due to the toxicity of secretions, excretions, and decomposed bodies of parasites to the host, many dogs may also experience convulsions. As a small breed, Pomeranians’ health can be easily affected when infected with parasites.

Figure 3: Deworming medicine helps keep dogs free from parasites

        Countermeasures:

        Owners should regularly deworm their dogs and must not assume a dog is parasite-free simply because it shows no symptoms. Parasite infections often do not manifest obvious signs in the short term, and by the time symptoms appear, serious harm may have already occurred. Additionally, when walking the dog, owners should watch closely and prevent them from eating anything from the roadside, especially avoiding contact with other animals’ feces.

        3. Indigestion

        Clinically, dry gagging caused by indigestion is common. Besides gagging, dogs may also show symptoms such as loss of appetite and diarrhea.

        Countermeasures:

        Do not feed dogs hard-to-digest foods like chicken with bones; such chicken can not only cause indigestion but chicken bones may also scratch the esophagus and cause other injuries. If owners want to give extra food, they can purchase dog snacks or boil plain chicken meat at home (do not add salt or any seasonings) for the dog.

Figure 4: It is best to choose boneless chicken breast for your dog

Figure 5: Cooked chicken can also be shredded or pulled into strips for the dog to eat

        4. Kennel cough and other diseases

        Some Pomeranians with kennel cough or canine distemper show early dry gagging and coughing symptoms. Dogs with these diseases usually also experience vomiting, lethargy, and elevated body temperature, making it easier for owners to notice the problem.

        Countermeasures:

        Proper immunization is the best way to prevent infectious diseases. If a dog unfortunately becomes ill, owners must promptly take it to a veterinary hospital for treatment; the earlier the treatment, the better the chance of recovery. Additionally, owners should disinfect household items thoroughly. If more than one dog is kept, separate the sick dog from healthy ones.

        5. Exercise issues

        Dogs are prone to gagging if they exercise when very hungry or just after eating.

        Countermeasures:

        As a small breed, Pomeranians are not built for intense exercise. Therefore, owners must select appropriate times for walks and control the amount of exercise. Besides being careful during walks, owners should avoid physically exhausting games at home, or the dog’s gagging may worsen.

        2. How to judge when to take a gagging Pomeranian to the vet

        First, if the dog only shows mild gagging without other discomfort, owners can observe initially. If vomiting, lethargy, or fever occurs, take the dog to a veterinary hospital promptly. Second, if the owner understands the reason for gagging and how to deal with it, a vet visit may not be necessary. However, if the dog shows unexpected symptoms, immediate veterinary assistance is required. Also, if the owner cannot judge the dog’s condition, it is best to take the dog to the vet to avoid accidents. Finally, owners are reminded not to medicate dogs without guidance; Pomeranians are small with physiology very different from humans, and incorrect drugs or dosages can cause poisoning.